Ingredients225 g (8 oz) spaghetti, linguine, or any pasta3 tbsp unsalted butter4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tbsp garlic paste)¼ cup pasta water (from the pot)½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)Salt and black pepper, to tasteOptional: ½ tsp red pepper flakesOptional: fresh parsley, choppedOptional: a squeeze of lemon🥣 Instructions1. Cook the pastaBring salted water to a boil.Cook the pasta according to package directions (usually 8–10 minutes).Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.2. Make the garlic butter sauceIn a large pan, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat.Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant (don’t brown it).Add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.3. CombineAdd the cooked pasta to the pan.Pour in ¼ cup pasta water.Add Parmesan cheese and toss until the cheese melts and forms a silky sauce.Season with salt and black pepper to taste.4. ServeServe hot with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley.Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness (optional but amazing).⭐ Tips & VariationsCreamier version: Add 2–3 tbsp heavy cream or a splash of milk.Protein options: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon.Veggie boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, peas, or cherry tomatoes.Ultra-garlic version: Add roasted garlic or garlic powder for deeper flavor.
10-Minute Garlic Butter Parmesan Pasta
